The Guest House and the reception of Guests

More about Guests from the RULE

Let there be a separate kitchen for the Abbot and guests,that the brethren may not be disturbed when guests,who are never lacking in a monastery,arrive at irregular hours.Let two brethren capable of filling the office well be appointed for a year to have charge of this kitchen. Let them be given such help as they need, that they may serve without murmuring.And on the other hand,when they have less to occupy them,let them go out to whatever work is assigned them.
And not only in their case but in all the offices of the monasterylet this arrangement be observed,that when help is needed it be supplied,and again when the workers are unoccupied they do whatever they are bidden.
The guest house also shall be assigned to a brother whose soul is possessed by the fear of God.Let there be a sufficient number of beds made up in it; and let the house of God be managed by prudent men and in a prudent manner.
On no account shall anyone who is not so orderedassociate or converse with guests.But if he should meet them or see them,let him greet them humbly, as we have said,ask their blessing and pass on, saying that he is not allowed to converse with a guest.

Looking after guests

Let all guests who arrive be received like Christ, for He is going to say, "I came as a guest, and you received Me" (Matt. 25:35).And to all let due honor be shown,especially to the domestics of the faith and to pilgrims.
As soon as a guest is announced, therefore,let the Superior or the brethren meet him with all charitable service.And first of all let them pray together,and then exchange the kiss of peace.For the kiss of peace should not be offered until after the prayers have been said, on account of the devil's deceptions.
In the salutation of all guests, whether arriving or departing,let all humility be shown.Let the head be bowed or the whole body prostrated on the ground in adoration of Christ, who indeed is received in their persons.
After the guests have been received and taken to prayer, let the Superior or someone appointed by him sit with them.Let the divine law be read before the guest for his edification,and then let all kindness be shown him.The Superior shall break his fast for the sake of a guest,unless it happens to be a principal fast day which may not be violated.The brethren, however, shall observe the customary fasts.Let the Abbot give the guests water for their hands; and let both Abbot and community wash the feet of all guests.After the washing of the feet let them say this verse:"We have received Your mercy, O God,in the midst of Your temple" (Ps.47[48]:10).
In the reception of the poor and of pilgrimsthe greatest care and solicitude should be shown,because it is especially in them that Christ is received;for as far as the rich are concerned,the very fear which they inspirewins respect for them.